Joining from CBRE, James has worked in the commercial property sector since 2014 previously specialising in office, industrial and retail agency before moving into the data centres sector at the beginning of 2017. He brings with him significant experience in delivering for international data centre clients’ requirements combining businesses real estate advice with a technical delivery focus.
At Knight Frank, James will sit across both the occupier and development data centres team, representing a diverse range of clients and involved in multiple acquisitions and lease renewals across EMEA, LATAM and APAC.
Oliver joins from Carrowmore Property where he was a development manager working across the London office and UK BTR sectors. A six years’ qualified chartered surveyor, he previously worked in a development management capacity on the majority of Citygrove’s active UK property development portfolio.
Oliver joins the Knight Frank global data centres team as an Associate focusing on development throughout EMEA. Initially he will be supporting the team as it launches six powered shell opportunities across Africa, in Accra, Nairobi, Lagos and Cairo.
Ben Stirk, Co-Head of Global Data Centres at Knight Frank said: “We are thrilled to welcome James and Oliver to Knight Frank. Data centres are increasingly rising up global investors’ wish lists and these appointments reflect the firm’s intent to deliver our clients with the finest offer and advice in the market.”
James Smith added: “Joining Knight Frank represents a huge opportunity and I look forward to working closely with Steve, Ben and the wider team to expand the firm’s offer to its global client base.”
Oliver Weston said: “I’m excited to be joining the Knight Frank data centres team. The sector is rapidly expanding and I’m proud to be a part of a market-leading team at the forefront of this growth.”
